COS Pithos Bianco 2022
COS · Sicily, Italy
At a glance
- Producer
- COS
- Region
- Sicily, Italy
- Grape variety
- Catarratto, Inzolia, Grecanico
- Wine type
- White
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $40-$55
Tasting profile
Aromas of citrus peel, orchard fruits, white flowers, and a slight wildness from skin fermentation. Mouthfeel is textured with moderate phenolics and saline minerality.
Evolution: Over the next 2-6 years, expect increased complexity with notes of honey, nuts, and a more pronounced savory mineral character.
At peak: Well-integrated texture and balanced acidity with lush fruit and a clean, persistent finish.
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-plus acidity, vibrant and refreshing
- Tannins
- Low to none (white wine)
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Aging potential
- 10+ years due to natural wine style and skin-contact fermentation
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2025 to 2029
- Optimal window
- 2023 to 2032
- Current status
- Ready to drink, with growing complexity
- Current condition
- Fresh with developing notes of texture and minerality
The wine’s natural fermentation in amphorae (pithos) and skin contact provide structure and phenolic depth uncommon for typical whites. Its medium-plus acidity and balanced alcohol allow it to evolve well beyond early drinking windows typical for white wines.
Food pairing
Excellent with seafood dishes (especially shellfish), grilled vegetables, Sicilian-style pasta, white meats, and mildly spicy cuisine.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 10-12°C / 50-54°F
- Decant
- Not required
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 9/10
COS employs organic viticulture with minimal intervention, uses natural fermentation in amphorae, minimal added sulfites, recycles water, and uses lightweight bottles sourced locally where possible.
COS is widely regarded as a pioneering sustainable producer in Sicily, emphasizing organic farming, low-impact winemaking, and natural fermentation. They minimize energy use and water consumption and are progressing toward biodynamic certification. While international export contributes to carbon emissions, their local sourcing and packaging choices reflect a strong overall sustainability commitment.